Greenville Rallies Together for Relief Efforts After Tropical Storm Helene
Greenville, SC — There’s something truly heartwarming about communities coming together in times of need, and that’s exactly what we’re seeing here in Greenville. After the devastation caused by the remnants of Tropical Storm Helene, the parking lot of the Runway Cafe at the Downtown Greenville Airport has turned into a bustling hub for relief efforts. If you’ve driven by lately, you might have noticed the influx of volunteers, supplies, and hope.
From Social Media to a Community Movement
It all began with a few simple posts on Instagram. Local pilot Isaiah Burch, who also runs Happy Helicopters, decided to take action. On September 28, he announced his plan to fly supplies into western North Carolina, which had been hit hard by Helene. With that single post, the response began to pour in.
“The first day, we got a few donations,” Isaiah shared. “But by the weekend, it was as if the floodgates opened!” As donations began to roll in, it quickly became apparent that this was going to be much larger than any one person could manage.
How the Community Came Together
As October 1 rolled around, the parking lot was packed with cars full of donations, and families were stepping out to help sort and organize supplies. It was a scene filled with the chatter of volunteers, the honking of horns, and the loading up of planes and helicopters destined for the stricken towns.
The local Walmart and Swamp Rabbit Grocery joined the effort, sending large trucks of food and supplies. Community members took turns directing traffic, ensuring everything flowed smoothly. Tracy Roberts, a local realtor, noted, “It’s been incredible to see so many people come together. Everyone has helped out so amazingly.”
Flights of Hope
Among the many volunteers, pilots proved to be essential lifelines. From personal planes to helicopters, many took to the skies with missions to deliver essential items like diapers, canned goods, water, tools, and fuel.
For example, Isaiah was flying his Red Robin helicopter nonstop, making multiple trips. “The areas we’re going to are cut off, so my helicopter can get there, but honestly, I can only carry so much.” Each flight he made brought a bit of hope to those who had lost so much.
Another familiar face at the airport was Matt Kappel, a Greenville attorney. He shared, “Watching this effort grow has been phenomenal. I’ve been taking supplies to places like Rutherfordton and Macon County. Every trip, I carry hundreds of pounds of food and water.”
The Ongoing Effort
Even as we speak, the efforts have not slowed down. Tracy mentioned that they plan to keep accepting donations and volunteers at the airport until at least October 11. The community is rallying; each car that pulls up is a reminder that compassion knows no bounds.
The devastation in western North Carolina follows a deeply tragic path. Numerous lives have been lost, and many towns remain without power. “It’s people in desperation,” noted Isaiah, describing the emotional reactions he witnesses during his flights. “They swarm the helicopter. It’s overwhelming.”
A Call to Action
For anyone interested in helping, the community stands open and ready for more support. Gathering supplies, whether it’s food, water, or basic necessities, can truly make a difference. You can feel the spirit of unity and resilience in the air, a spirit that says we will recover, and we will help our neighbors in need.
As Greenville pilots and community members continue to assist those affected by Tropical Storm Helene, they remind us all about the goodness that can shine through even the most challenging times. The efforts here embody the essence of humanity—compassion, dedication, and love. Let’s stand together, helping those who need it most.
